Montague, Michigan Public Records

The Michigan State Police also helps with maintaining and disseminating criminal records, so that Muskegon County residents have access to accurate and information for legal and personal purposes.

State-level records, including vehicle registrations and professional licenses, are available through the Michigan Department of State (https://www.michigan.gov/sos), which provides online resources for convenient access.

Public records related to local commerce, such as business licenses and property tax assessments, can be accessed through the Muskegon City/Township Assessor's Office (https://www.co.muskegon.mi.us/188/Assessor) and the Montague City Clerk's Office.

Public records related to the local economy, such as property tax assessments, business licenses, and economic development initiatives, can be accessed through the Muskegon City/Township Assessor's Office (https://www.co.muskegon.mi.us/188/Assessor) and the Montague City Clerk's Office (https://www.cityofmontague.org/city-clerk).

Michigan residents can register online through the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.michigan.gov/vote, operated by the Michigan Secretary of State. The state offers same-day voter registration, allowing eligible residents to register and cast ballots on Election Day at their clerk's office or polling place with proof of residency. Online registration requires a Michigan driver's license or state ID number, or the last four digits of a Social Security number. First-time voters registering by mail may need to show identification when voting. Municipal elections in Montague select city council members and a mayor. The city operates under a council-manager form of government with a mayor and six council members. These elections occur in odd-numbered years on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November, placing the next city election on November 4, 2025. Information about local candidates, ballot proposals, and polling locations is available through the Muskegon County Clerk's website and the City of Montague website. Sample ballots typically appear several weeks before each election. Residents can find their assigned polling place using the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.michigan.gov/vote, where entering an address reveals voter registration status, polling location, and sample ballot. Polling places have historically included Montague City Hall and local community centers, though assignments may shift based on precinct boundaries. Michigan maintains strong public access to election records. Voter registration lists are public records available for purchase from Muskegon County Clerk for legitimate purposes, though personal details like birth dates and driver's license numbers remain protected. Campaign finance reports for state and local candidates can be searched through the Michigan Secretary of State's Campaign Finance database at www.michigan.gov/cfr. Candidate filings and nominating petitions are public records at the Muskegon County Clerk's office. Precinct-level election results for the city and all county precincts are published by the Muskegon County Clerk following certification, typically appearing on the clerk's website within days of each election. During the November 2024 presidential election, Muskegon County reported approximately 64% voter turnout, with over 100,000 ballots cast countywide out of approximately 156,000 registered voters. Local participation rates typically mirror county averages, with higher turnout during presidential election years. Looking to the November 3, 2026 general election, voters in Montague and Muskegon County will decide several important races. Michigan does not have a U.S. Senate seat up for election in 2026, as both senators were elected in other cycle years. However, Michigan voters will elect a Governor in 2026, along with other statewide offices including Attorney General and Secretary of State. All 110 seats in the Michigan House of Representatives will be on the ballot, including the state representative seat covering the area in District 89 or the reconfigured district following redistricting. The county will elect county commissioners for districts including the city, along with county executive and other county offices. Additional local races may include Muskegon County Sheriff, Prosecutor, Clerk, Treasurer, and judicial positions for the 14th Circuit Court and 60th District Court. Voters should check closer to the election date for confirmed candidates and ballot proposals. Michigan offers no-reason absentee voting, meaning any registered voter can request an absentee ballot without providing an excuse. Voters can apply for absentee ballots online through the Michigan Voter Information Center, by mail, or in person at the Muskegon County Clerk's office or Montague City Clerk. Applications must be received by the Friday before Election Day for mail ballots, though voters can request and submit absentee ballots in person at the clerk's office through 8 PM on Election Day. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail (must be postmarked by Election Day and received within six days), deposited in a drop box, or delivered in person to the clerk's office. State law allows voters to track their absentee ballot status online through the Michigan Voter Information Center.